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The NSEP student guide

NSEP FAQs: Eligibility, Registration, Marks & Selection

Plain-language answers to common questions about NSEP eligibility, marking, syllabus, registration and qualification.

2026–27 cycleChecked 20 October 2026

Find a clear answer

Is nsep.in the official examination website?
No. This is an independent student guide. IAPT conducts NSEP and HBCSE coordinates later Physics Olympiad stages. Use the linked official sites for registration, notices and decisions.
Can a Class X student appear?
Yes, if all current age, class, schooling, passport and other conditions are satisfied. Use the eligibility guide.
Can a Class IX student appear in 2026?
The current HBCSE rules require Class X, XI or XII at enrolment. Older descriptions saying “Class XII or below” should not override the current cycle’s conditions.
Is the syllabus only Class XI?
No. Physics through Class XII is included, and mathematics through Class XII is expected. Both Group A and B use the same syllabus.
Is there negative marking?
Both current brochures prescribe −1 for an incorrect Part A answer. Part B has no negative marking and no partial credit. The portal FAQ conflicts; read the clarification and follow any later official correction.
How many questions and marks are there?
The brochures specify 48 single-correct questions worth 3 marks each, and 12 multiple-correct questions worth 6 marks each: 60 questions and 216 marks in two hours.
Can I take NSEP and NSEJS in the same cycle?
No. The current eligibility rules do not allow candidates to appear in NSEJS 2026 and the senior NSE subjects in that cycle.
Can I appear if my school is not an exam centre?
During the enrolment window, IAPT permits individual online enrolment or enrolment through another registered centre, subject to its rules.
Is registration still open for 2026?
The latest verified extension ended on 16 September 2026. No later reopening was found in the sources checked on 20 October 2026. Check IAPT for any subsequent notice.
Does crossing MAS guarantee INPhO selection?
No. MAS is the minimum admissible score. MI and the other selection clauses determine qualification. See how selection works.
Are the Class XII and Class X–XI papers different?
No. The paper and syllabus are the same. Selection is calculated separately for the two groups.
Do I need to register again after qualifying?
Yes. Shortlisted students must separately register with HBCSE for INPhO and obtain the INO admit card.
Are these practice questions actual NSEP questions?
The practice section contains original foundation and bridge questions with explanations. Actual official papers are clearly listed in the paper library.
Do I need an account here?
No. The guide, papers directory and practice questions are free to explore without an account. Optional syllabus progress is stored only on your own device.
Where can I ask about registration or an admit-card problem?
Contact IAPT using the details shown on the official exam portal. This website cannot access registrations, issue admit cards or change results.
Official sources and verificationVerified 20 October 2026. Official notices take precedence.
Official eligibility rules ↗IAPT 2026–27 brochure ↗HBCSE 2026–27 schedule ↗IAPT exam portal ↗

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